EP2646867B1

EP2646867B1 - Fiber device holder and strain relief device

Info

Publication number: EP2646867B1
Application number: EP11802567.5A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Monique L. Cote; Brent M. Frazier; William Julius McPhil GIRAUD; Raymond G. Jay; Brian D. Kingsbury; Michael H. Rasmussen
Original assignee: Corning Optical Communications LLC
Current assignee: Corning Research and Development Corp
Priority date: 2010-11-30
Filing date: 2011-11-29
Publication date: 2018-02-21
Anticipated expiration: 2031-11-29
Also published as: AU2015249054B2; AU2011336747A1; EP2646867A1; CA2819235C; WO2012074982A1; US20130266282A1; CN203759315U; CA2819235A1; US9213161B2; AU2015249054A1

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119 of U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 61/418,106, filed November 30, 2010 , "Fiber Body Holder and Strain Relief Device".
This application is related to co-pending U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 12/940,585, filed November 5, 2010 , entitled "Fiber Optic Housings Configured To Accommodate Fiber Optic Modules/Cassettes and Fiber Optic Panels, And Related Components and Methods".
This application is related to co-pending U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 12/940,699, filed November 5, 2010 , entitled "Stackable Shelves For A Fiber Optic Housing, and Related Components and Methods".

BACKGROUND

Field of the Disclosure

The disclosure relates to an optical fiber body holder, and more particularly to a fiber body holder that is toollessly, removably attachable to fiber optic equipment, is stackable with other fiber body holders, and provides strain relief for optical fibers. The fiber body holder removably attaches to the fiber optic equipment via an attachment feature, and includes a retainer assembly to toollesslly, releasably retain fiber bodies. The fiber body holder may be configured such that another fiber body holder may be toollessly, removably attached to the fiber body holder in a stacked orientation, thereby, expanding the capacity for the fiber optic equipment to releasably retain fiber bodies.

Technical Background

Benefits of optical fiber include extremely wide bandwidth and low noise operation. Because of these advantages, optical fiber is increasingly being used for a variety of applications, including but not limited to broadband voice, video, and data transmission. Fiber optic networks employing optical fiber are being developed and used to deliver voice, video, and data transmissions to subscribers over both private and public networks. These fiber optic networks often include separated connection points linking optical fibers to provide "live fiber" from one connection point to another connection point.
One of the concerns in working with or installing optical fiber is the delicate nature of certain of the smaller diameter optical fiber, for example 250 µm fiber. This diameter of fiber is typically encountered in outside plant and other loose tube applications. Often this size fiber is spliced to another like fiber which can entail large loops of slack of this small diameter fiber. To help with this, installers often use a "fan-out body" which is a component in which, as an example, a 250 µm fiber may be inserted into a 900µm fiber sleeve, thereby increasing the diameter of the workable fiber. Other types of fan-out bodies are available, including without limitation, one that may be used to convert 900µm fibers to a ribbon cable. Additionally, other types of fiber bodies, for example, furcation bodies, may be used. Furcation bodies furcate, or separate, individual optical fibers from a fiber optic cable.
US 2011/0268404 A1 discloses a fiber optic apparatus according to the preamble of claim 1.
Other prior art disclose US 2010/0086267 A1 , EP 0 105 597 A2 , WO 97/44604 A1 and US 6 175 079 B1 .

SUMMARY

Embodiments disclosed in the detailed description include a fiber optic apparatus for holding fiber bodies. The fiber optic apparatus according to the invention is defined in claim 1.
A stacking feature may be configured to removably attach a second retainer assembly to the retainer assembly via an attachment feature configured to removably attach the second retainer assembly. The stacking feature and the attachment feature configured to removably attach the second retainer assembly may form a hinge. A stand-off may be configured to raise the at least one retainer above a mounting surface when the retainer assembly is removably attached to the mounting surface. A support may be configured to support a stand-off of a second retainer assembly when the second retainer assembly is removably attached to the retainer assembly. The retainer assembly and the second retainer assembly may be similarly constructed. The retainer assembly and the second retainer assembly may be interchangeable.
The fiber optic apparatus may include a bracket with the attachment feature connected to the bracket. The bracket has a first side and a second side. The first side and the second side are connected to form an L shape. The bracket is toollesslly, removably attachable to a mounting surface in a first orientation by the first side, and toollessly, removably attachable to the mounting surface in the second orientation by the second side. The retainer assembly may be toollessly, removably attachable to the bracket, and, thereby, to the mounting surface by the attachment feature at the first side. The retainer assembly may be toollessly, removably attachable to the bracket, and, thereby, to the mounting surface by an attachment feature at the second side.
At least one fastener may be included and adapted to receive at least one of a tie wrap and a Velcro strap. The at least one fastener may be an arm. The at least one fastener may be an aperture. The at least one retainer may be configured to releasably retain one or more optical fibers to strain relief the one of more optical fibers.
Embodiments disclosed in the detailed description include a first retainer assembly having at least one retainer configured to toollessly, releasably retain a fiber body, and a second retainer assembly having at least one retainer configured to toollessly, releasably retain a fiber body. The fiber optic assembly may include a first attachment feature configured to toollessly, removably attaching the first retainer assembly, and a second attachment feature configured to toollessly, removably attaching the second retainer assembly. A first stacking feature may be configured to toollessly, removably attach the second retainer assembly to the first retainer assembly via the second attachment feature. The first attachment feature may removably attach the first retainer assembly to a mounting surface. The mounting surface may be fiber optic equipment. The fiber optic equipment may be a shelf mounted to a chassis in a fiber optic equipment rack.
Additional features and advantages will be set forth in the detailed description which follows, and in part will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from that description or recognized by practicing the embodiments as described herein, including the detailed description which follows, the claims, as well as the appended drawings.
It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are merely exemplary, and are intended to provide an overview or framework to understanding the nature and character of the claims. The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding, and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate one or more embodiment(s), and together with the description serve to explain principles and operation of the various embodiments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Figure 1 is a top perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a retainer assembly and an attachment feature;
Figure 2 is a reverse top, perspective view of the retainer assembly and the attachment feature of Figure 1 ;
Figure 3 is an underside perspective view of a mounting surface illustrating the attachment feature of Figure 1 removably attaching the retainer assembly to the mounting surface;
Figure 4 is a top perspective, partially exploded view of the retainer assembly and the attachment feature of Figure 1 with a fiber body;
Figure 5 is a side elevation, section cut view of a fiber body retained by a retainer of the retainer assembly and the attachment feature of Figure 1 ;
Figure 6 is a top, perspective view of a second retainer assembly and an attachment feature stacked on top of the retainer assembly and the attachment feature of Figure 1 ;
Figure 7 is a side elevation view of a second retainer assembly and an attachment feature stacked on top of the retainer assembly and an attachment feature of Figure 5 ;
Figure 8 is a top perspective view of the retainer assembly and the attachment feature of Figure 1 with optical fibers strain relieved by a retainer;
Figure 9 is a top, perspective view of the second retainer assembly and the attachment feature stacked on top of the retainer assembly and the attachment feature of Figure 5 removably attached to a fiber optic equipment shelf with other components;
Figure 10 is a top, perspective view of the retainer assembly and the attachment feature of Figure 1 with a fiber body retained in the retainer assembly and with other components and optical fibers;
Figure 11 is a top perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a retainer assembly and an attachment feature;
Figure 12 is a top perspective, partially exploded view of the retainer assembly and an attachment feature removably attaching the retainer assembly to a mounting surface and with fiber bodies retained in the retainer assembly and one fiber body separated therefrom; and
Figure 13 is an underside perspective view of the mounting surface illustrating the attachment feature of Figure 12 removably attaching the retainer assembly to the mounting surface;
Figure 14 is a side elevation view of a section cut of the retainer assembly, the attachment feature and the mounting surface of Figure 12 ;
Figure 15 is a reverse top, perspective view of a second retainer assembly and an attachment feature stacked on top of the retainer assembly and the attachment feature of Figure 11 ;
Figure 16 is a side elevation view of a second retainer assembly and an attachment feature stacked on top of the retainer assembly and an attachment feature of Figure 15 ;
Figure 17 is a top perspective view of the retainer assembly and the attachment feature of Figure 11 with optical fibers strain relieved by a retainer;
Figure 18 is a top, perspective exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of a retainer assembly and a bracket in a first orientation;
Figure 19 is a top, perspective exploded view of the retainer assembly and the bracket of Figure 18 in a second orientation;
Figure 20 is a top, perspective, partially exploded view of the retainer assembly and the bracket of Figure 18 in the first orientation with a fiber body separated therefrom;
Figure 21 is a top, perspective view of the retainer assembly and the bracket of Figure 19 in the second orientation with fiber bodies retained by retainers;
Figure 22 is a top, perspective view of the retainer assembly and the bracket of Figure 18 in the first orientation with optical fibers strain relieved by retainers;
Figure 23A is a top, perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a retainer assembly and attachment feature, and a second retainer assembly and attachment feature stacked on top of the retainer assembly and the attachment by a hinge with the second retainer assembly and attachment feature pivoted to an open position;
Figure 23B is a top, perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a retainer assembly and attachment feature and a second retainer assembly and attachment feature of Figure 23A with the second retainer assembly and attachment feature pivoted to a closed position;
Figure 24A is a top, perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a retainer assembly and attachment feature, and a second retainer assembly and attachment feature stacked on top of the retainer assembly and the attachment by a hinge with the second retainer assembly and attachment feature pivoted to an open position; and
Figure 24B is a top, perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a retainer assembly and attachment feature and a second retainer assembly and attachment feature of Figure 24A with the second retainer assembly and attachment feature pivoted to a closed position.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference will now be made in detail to the present preferred embodiment(s), examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Whenever possible, the same reference numerals will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts.
As used herein, the terms "fiber optic cables" and/or "optical fibers" include all types of single mode and multi-mode light waveguides, including one or more optical fibers that may be upcoated, colored, buffered, ribbonized and/or have other organizing or protective structure in a cable such as one or more tubes, strength members, jackets or the like. Likewise, other types of suitable optical fibers include bend-insensitive optical fibers, or any other expedient of a medium for transmitting light signals. An example of a bend-insensitive optical fiber is ClearCurve® Multimode fiber commercially available from Corning Incorporated.
The designation "U" refers to a standard equipment shelf size of a fiber optic equipment rack or a cabinet. This may also be referred to as "RU." For example, an equipment rack may support 42 1U-sized shelves, with "U" equal to a standard 1.75 inches in height and nineteen (19) inches in width. In certain applications, the width of "U" may be twenty-three (23) inches. Typically, the more rack space (the more "U's") a housing takes up, the higher the fiber capacity in the housing. It is often desirable from either a manufacturing standpoint or an installation standpoint to have the ability to conveniently convert from a 1U housing to a 2U housing.
Further, as used herein, the term "fiber body" shall be understood to mean and describe a fan-out body, a furcation body or device, strain relief device, and the like, including, without limitation, components that furcated, separate, en-sleeve, or in any manner combine or un-combine optical fibers with respect to other optical fibers, fiber optic cables, coverings or jackets, and/or clamp or retain one or more optical fibers or fiber optic cables.
Figures 1-24B illustrate exemplary embodiments of a fiber optic apparatus for use as a holder for fiber bodies. For purposes of describing the embodiments, the term "fiber body" shall be used herein and should be understood to mean and include, without limitation, furcation bodies, fan-out bodies, and the like. A fiber body holder may be toollessly and removably attached to a mounting surface, for example, fiber optic equipment, including 1U to 4U sized shelves and stackable shelves, and may be configured to hold and support one or more fiber bodies. The fiber body holder comprises a retainer assembly with a plurality of retainers each of which may be configured to releasably retain a fiber body. In this way, a technician may toollessly install a fiber body into and release a fiber body from the retainer without affecting other fiber bodies. Additionally, the fiber body holder comprises an attachment feature for removably attaching the retainer assembly to the mounting surface. The technician can remove from the fiber body holder from the mounting surface to install or release the fiber body from the retainer, or to relocate the fiber body holder on the mounting surface. Further, another fiber body holder may be toollessly removably attached to the fiber body holder, which may be in a stacked orientation.
In this regard, Figures 1-10 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a fiber optic apparatus for use as a fiber body holder. The fiber body holder has a retainer assembly with at least one retainer formed as a channel disposed between extension members. The channel is configured to releasably retain a fiber body disposed therein via mounting bosses on the fiber body. An attachment feature connected to brackets comprising end sections provide for the ability of a technician toollessly to grip the fiber body holder and to attach the fiber body holder to and remove the fiber body holder from the mounting surface. If additional capacity is needed or desired to support additional fiber bodies, a stacking feature may be configured to removably attach a second retainer assembly by removably attaching a second fiber body holder on top of the fiber body holder.
Figure 1 illustrates a top, perspective view of the embodiment of the fiber body holder 10. The fiber body holder 10 has a retainer assembly 12 and an attachment feature 14. In the embodiment shown in Figure 1 , the retainer assembly 12 has a plurality of retainers 16. Each retainer 16 has a channel 18 formed by end walls 20 and side walls 22. Spaces 23 between the side walls 22 allow the side walls 22 to flex which will be described in more detail below. Extension members 24 extending from the side walls 22. The end walls 24 are divided into first and second segments 26, 28 by a center wall 30 which intersects the end walls 24. The attachment feature 14 has tabs 32, 33 and is connected to bracket 34 comprising first and second end sections 36, 38, and latch 40. Latch 40 is resilient allowing a technician can grip the bracket 34 by the first end section 36 and the latch 40, squeeze the fiber body holder 10 between the first end section 36 and the latch 40 so that the tabs 32, 33 can be inserted into receivers disposed in a mounting surface (not shown) to toollessly, removably attach the fiber body holder 10, and, thereby, the retainer assembly 12, to the mounting surface. This will be described in more detail with reference to Figures 2 and 3 , below.
Figure 2 illustrates a top, perspective view of the fiber body 10 from the perspective of second end section 38, which is a reverse perspective from that of Figure 1 . Figure 2 is provided to illustrate release button 42 on latch 40. The release button 42 is provided for the technician to push as the technician is squeezing the fiber body holder 10 between the first end section 36 and the latch 40 as described above. This pivots the latch 40 and moves the tabs 33 on the latch 40 toward the second end section 38. The tabs 32 on the first end section 36 may be inserted in and retained by their respective receivers in the mounting surface first, with the tabs 33 on the latch 40 inserted in their respective receivers second. Due to its resiliency, the latch 40 will pivot back to its initial position when the technician releases the release button 42. This also causes the tabs 33 on the latch 40 to move back to their initial position, and thereby, being retained by their respective receivers. The fiber body holder 10, and, thereby, the retainer assembly 12, can be toollessly removed from the mounting surface by the technician pushing the release button 42 and removing the tabs 33 on the latch 40 from the mounting surface, and then removing the tabs 32 on the first end section 36 from the mounting surface.
Figure 3 is a bottom perspective view of the mounting surface 44 illustrating the underside 46 of the mounting surface 44. In Figure 3 , tabs 32 on the first end section 36 and tabs 33 on the latch 40 are shown inserted in and being retained by a receivers 48. The receivers 48 may have a lip 49. The tabs 32, 33 may be inserted in the receiver 48 and moved so that the tabs 32, 33 friction fit against the lip 49. The tabs 32 and the tabs 33 are similarly designed such that they may be inserted and retained either of the receivers 48 shown in Figure 3 . In this way, the fiber body holder 10 can be oriented and located in different positions on mounting surface 44. Alternatively, the tabs 32 and the tabs 33 may be designed differently such that the fiber body holder 10 may be removably mounted to the mounting surface 44 in a certain orientation.
Figure 4 is a top, perspective view of the fiber body holder 10 with a fiber body 50 shown separate from the fiber body holder 10. The fiber body 50 would insert in the channel 18 of one of the retainers 16 of the retainer assembly 12. In Figure 4 , the fiber body 50 is shown as being inserted into the channel 18 closest to the second end section 38. The fiber body 50 may be inserted into the channel 18 in either of two opposite directions such that the optical fibers may fan out in either direction. Fiber bodies 50 may be inserted into the retainer assembly 12 starting with the channel 18 closest to the second end section 38 and, then, inserted into channels 18 sequentially progressing from the second end section 38 toward the first end section 36. When fiber bodies 50 are inserted in all of the retainers 16 of a fiber body holder 10, the fiber body holder may be considered full or fully loaded and additional fiber bodies would be inserted in retainers 16 of another fiber body holder 10. The fiber body 50 has two mounting bosses 52. One mounting boss 52 inserts into the first segment 26 of the channel 18 and the other mounting boss 52 inserts into the second segment 28 of the channel 18.
Figure 5 shows a section view of a fiber body 50 inserted in the retainer assembly 12 cut through the retainer 16. The mounting bosses 52 are shown inserted in first segment 26 and second segment 28 of the channel 18. As illustrated in Figure 5 , the side wall 22 of the first segment 26 has a first retaining dimple 54 and the side wall 22 of the second segment 28 has a second retaining dimple 56. As the fiber body 50 is being inserted in the retainer 16, the mounting bosses 52 put pressure on the retaining dimples 54, 56 forcing side walls 22 to flex outwardly. This allows the mounting bosses 52 to be inserted in the first segment 26 and the second segment 28. Once the mounting bosses 52 are inserted, the side walls 22 return to their initial positions causing the retaining dimples 54, 56 align adjacent to the mounting bosses 52 in such a way to retain the mounting bosses 52 in the first segment 26 and the second segment 28 of the channel 18. The mounting bosses 52 insert in the channel 18 with one mounting boss 52 on one side of the center wall 30 and the other mounting boss 52 on the other side of the center wall 30. In this way, the center wall 30 prevents the fiber body 50 from rotating. When the fiber body 50 is being removed from the retainer 16, the mounting bosses 52 again put pressure on the retaining dimples 54, 56 forcing side walls 22 to flex outwardly allowing the mounting bosses 52 to pass by the retaining dimples 54, 56 and be removed from the retainer 16. In this way, the retainer 16 may releasably retain the fiber body 50.
Figure 6 illustrates the fiber body holder 10 with a second fiber body holder 10' having a second retainer assembly 12' removably attached to the fiber body holder 10 in a stacked orientation. The fiber body holder 10 is shown removably attached to a mounting surface 44. As mentioned above, when all of the retainers 16 of a fiber body holder 10 are releasably retaining fiber bodies 50, additional fiber body holders 10 may be provided for additional fiber bodies 50. One way to do this, as shown in Figure 6 , is for multiple fiber body holders 10 to be stacked on top of each other. For facilitate clarity in discussing Figure 6 , and to distinguish the fiber body holders, the fiber body holder attached to the mounting surface 44 will be referred to as the first fiber body holder 10. The fiber body holder removably attached to the first fiber body holder 10 will be referred to as the second fiber body holder 10'. In Figure 6 , the first fiber body holder 10 and the second fiber body holder 10' are shown as being of a similar design and construction. Thus, the description of the first fiber body holder 10 as set out herein, may also apply to the second fiber body holder 10'. However, it is not necessary that the first fiber body holder 10 and the second fiber body holder 10' be of the same design and construction.
Figure 7 illustrates a side elevation of the second fiber body holder 10' removably attached to the first fiber body holder 10 in a stacked orientation. The first fiber body holder 10 has a stacking feature 56 on the first end section 36 and the second end section 38. The stacking feature 56 is configured to receive tabs 32' and 33' of the attachment feature 14' of the second fiber body holder 10'. Therefore, the second fiber body holder 10' may be removably attached to the first fiber body holder 10 in the same manner as the first fiber body holder 10 is removably attached to the mounting surface 44. In this regard, a release button 42' is provided for the technician to push as the technician is squeezing the fiber body holder 10' between the first end section 36' and the latch 40'. This pivots the latch 40' and moves the tabs 33' on the latch 40' toward the second end section 38'. The tabs 32' on the first end section 36' may be inserted in and retained by the stacking feature 56 connected to the first end section 36 of the of the first fiber body holder 10 first, with the tabs 33' on the latch 40' inserted in and retained by the stacking feature 56 connected to the second end section 38 of the of the first fiber body holder 10. Due to its resiliency, the latch 40' will pivot back to its initial position when the technician releases the release button 42'. This also causes the tabs 33' on the latch 40' to move back to their initial position, and thereby, being retained by the stacking feature 56. The second fiber body holder 10', and, thereby, the second retainer assembly 12', can be removed from the first fiber body holder 10 by the technician pushing the release button 42' and removing the tabs 33' on the latch 40' from the stacking feature 56 of first fiber body holder 10, and then the tabs 32' on the first end section 36' from the stacking feature 56 of the first fiber body holder 10. Additionally, the second fiber body holder 10' has a stacking feature 56' which not only allows another fiber body holder to be removably attached to the second fiber body holder 10' in a further stacked orientation, but, also, makes the first fiber body holder 10 and the second fiber body holder 10' interchangeable.
Figure 8 illustrates the fiber body holder 10 used to strain relief optical fibers 60. The extension members 24 may be used as fastening members. In this way the optical fibers 60 are attached to the extension members 24 using tie wraps 62. The extension members 24 are terminated by tie wrap retainers 64 which retain the tie wraps on the extension members 24 and inhibit the tie wraps 62 from slipping off of the extension members 24. Alternatively or additionally, Velcro may be used to attach the optical fibers to the extension members 24.
Figure 9 illustrates the mounting surface 44 as a shelf 64 of fiber optic equipment with the first fiber body holder 10 removably attached to the shelf 64 which may be a type of stackable shelf. The second fiber body holder 10' removably attached to the first fiber body holder 10. In Figure 9 , the shelf 64 is shown as having other fiber optic components 66. The other fiber optic components 66 may be any type of component, as examples, without limitation, adapters, splitters, fan-out devices, slack storage devices, strain relief devices, routing guides, and the like.
Figure 10 illustrates the shelf 64 shown in Figure 9 with a fiber optic body 50 being releasably retained by a fiber optic holder 10 removably attached to the shelf 64. Optical fibers 60 route to the fiber optic holder 50 the other fiber optic components 66. At one end, the optical fibers 60 routed to the fiber optic holder 50 may be a fiber optic cable, for example, a 900µm fiber sleeve with multiple 250µm optical fibers therein.
Figures 11 - 17 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a fiber optic apparatus for use as a fiber body holder. The fiber body holder has a retainer assembly with at least one retainer having two channels. The channels are configured to releasably retain a fiber body disposed therein via mounting bosses on the fiber body. An attachment feature connected to a bracket provides for the ability of a technician to attach the fiber body holder to and remove the fiber body holder from the mounting surface. If additional capacity is needed or desired to support additional fiber bodies, a stacking feature may be configured to removably attach a second retainer assembly by removably attaching a second fiber body holder on top of the fiber body holder.
Figure 11 illustrates a top, perspective view of the embodiment of the fiber body holder 100. The fiber body holder 100 has a retainer assembly 112 and an attachment feature 114. In the embodiment shown in Figure 11 , the retainer assembly 112 has a plurality of retainers 116. Each retainer 116 has a first channel 118 and a second channel 120. The first channel 118 is defined by first end wall 122 and first side wall 124. The second channel 120 is defined by second end wall 126 and second side wall 128. The attachment feature 114 has a flange 130 and a protrusion 132 and is connected to bracket 134. At least one retaining dimple 136 protrudes from the first side wall 124 and the second side wall 128 into the first channel 118 and the second channel 120, respectively. In Figure 11 , four retaining dimples 136 protrude into each of the first channels 118 and the second channels 120 with a two of the four retaining dimples 136 opposite each other to form two opposing pairs of retaining dimples 136 for each first channel 118 and each second channel 120. Stand-offs 140 raise the retainer assembly 112 a certain distance above a mounting surface (not shown in Figure 11 ). Supports 142 support the stand-offs of a second fiber body holder which may be removably attached to the fiber body holder 100 as will be discussed below. Apertures 144 defined by the first end walls 122 and second end walls 126 separate the first channels 118 and the second channels 120. A stacking feature 146 having a receiver 148 allows the removable attachment of another fiber body holder to the fiber body holder 100.
Figure 12 illustrates the fiber body holder 100 removably attached to a mounting surface 44. Two fiber bodies 50(1), 50(2) are shown releasably retained by the retainers 116. The fiber body 50(1) is shown inserted in the first channel 118 of one of the retainers 116, and the fiber body 50(2) is shown in a reverse orientation and inserted in the second channel 120 of another retainer 116. Fiber body 50(3) is shown separate from the fiber body holder 100. The fiber body 50(3) would insert in the first channel 118 of another one of the retainers 116. Each mounting boss 52 of the fiber body 50(3) aligns with an opposing pair of retaining dimples 136. Only one retaining dimple 136 from each opposing pair of retaining dimples 136 is shown in Figure 12 .
The first side walls 124 and the second side walls 128 are resilient. When the fiber body 50 is inserted in the first channel 118 or the second channel 120 the mounting bosses 52 put pressure on the retaining dimples 136 which forces the first side walls 124 or the second side walls 128, as the case may be, to flex. This widens the first channel 118 and/or the second channel 120 allowing the mounting bosses 52 to be inserted in the first channel 118 and/or the second channel 120. When the passage 53 through the mounting bosses 52 reaches the retaining dimples 136, each of pair of opposing retaining dimples 136 positions in respective opposite ends of the passage 53. The first side walls 124 and the second side walls 128 then flex back toward their initial positions. In this way, the retaining dimples 136 retain the mounting boss 52 in the first channel 118 and/or the second channel 120, as the case may be, and, thereby, releasably retain the fiber body 50 in the retainer 116. When the fiber body 50 is being removed from the retainer 116, the mounting bosses 52 put pressure the retaining dimples 136 forcing the retaining dimples 136 out of the respective opening in the passage 53, which forces the first side walls 126 and/or the second side walls 128 to flex outwardly allowing the mounting bosses 52 to be removed from the first and/or second channel 118, 120. In this way, the retainer 16 may releasably retain the fiber body 50.
Figure 13 illustrates a bottom perspective view of the mounting surface 44 showing the underside 46 of the mounting surface 44. In Figure 13 two receivers 148 are shown. One receiver 148 has an attachment feature 114 inserted therein, while the other receiver 144 does not. As shown by the receiver 144 without an attachment feature 114, the receiver has a segmented lip 150 extending at least partially around the perimeter of the receiver 144 and indented from the underside 46 of the mounting surface 44. A slot 152 separates the segments of the lip 150. The attachment feature 114 inserts in the receiver 148 by first inserting the flange 130 in the slot 152 and moving the flange 130 over one of the segments of the lip 150. The lip 150 then positions in a notch 154 formed by the flange 130. When the flange 130 is positioned over the lip 150, the protrusion 132 is positioned against the other segment of the lip 150 and friction fits against the lip 150. The flange 130 and the protrusion 132 may be inserted at either segment of the lip 150 allowing the fiber body holder 100 to be removably attached to the mounting surface 44 in two orientations with respect to each receiver 148.
Figure 14 illustrates is a side elevation view of the fiber body holder 100 removably attached to a mounting surface 44 using the attachment feature 114. In Figure 14 , a segment of the lip 150 is shown positioned in the notch 154 formed by the flange 130. The protrusion 132 is friction fit against the other segment of the lip 150. The stand-offs 140 provide raised support for the fiber body holder 100 allowing clearance of the retainer assembly 112 from the mounting surface 44. To remove the fiber body holder 100 from the mounting surface 44, the protrusion 132 is forced out from against the segment of the lip 150, and the flange 130 is then moved toward the slot 152. The attachment feature 114 may then be removed from the receiver 148.
Figure 15 illustrates the fiber body holder 100 with a second fiber body holder 100' having a second retainer assembly 112' removably attached to the fiber body holder 100 in a stacked orientation. As mentioned above, when all of the retainers 116 of a fiber body holder 100 are releasably retaining fiber bodies 50, additional fiber body holders 100 may be provided for additional fiber bodies 50. One way to do this, as shown in Figure 15 , is for multiple fiber body holders 100 to be stacked on top of each other. To facilitate clarity in discussing Figure 15 , and to distinguish the fiber body holders, the bottom fiber body holder will be referred to as the first fiber body holder 100. The fiber body holder removably attached to the first fiber body holder 100 will be referred to as the second fiber body holder 100'. In Figure 15 , the first fiber body holder 100 and the second fiber body holder 100' are shown as being of a similar design and construction. Thus, the description of the first fiber body holder 100 as set out herein, may also apply to the second fiber body holder 100'. However, it is not necessary that the first fiber body holder 100 and the second fiber body holder 100' be of the same design and construction.
Figure 16 illustrates a side elevation of the second fiber body holder 100' removably attached to the first fiber body holder 100 in a stacked orientation. The first fiber body holder 100 has a stacking feature 146. The stacking feature 146 has a receiver 148 similar to the receiver 148 in the mounting surface 44 as described above. In this manner, the receiver 148 of the stacking feature 146 is configured to receive the attachment feature 114' of the second fiber body holder 100'. Therefore, the second fiber body holder 100' may be removably attached to the first fiber body holder 100 in the same manner as the first fiber body holder 100 is removably attached to the mounting surface 44. Stand-offs 140' of the second fiber body holder 100' position on and are supported by the supports 142 of the first fiber body holder 100. The stand-off 140' provides raised support for the second fiber body holder 100' allowing clearance of the retainer assembly 112' the second fiber body holder 100' from the retainer assembly 112 of the first fiber body holder 100. To remove the fiber body holder 100' from the first fiber body holder 100, the protrusion 132' is forced out from against the segment of the lip 150, of the receiver 148 of the stacking feature 146. The flange 130' is then moved toward the slot 152. The attachment feature 114' may then be removed from the receiver 148 of the stacking feature 146 allowing the second fiber body holder 100', and, thereby, the second retainer assembly 112' to be separated from the first fiber body holder 100. Additionally, the second fiber body holder 100' has a stacking feature 146' which not only allows another fiber body holder to be removably attached to the second fiber body holder 100' in a further stacked orientation, but, also, allows the first fiber body holder 100 and the second fiber body holder 100' interchangeable.
Figure 17 illustrates the fiber body holder 100 used to strain relief optical fibers 60. The apertures 144 may be used as fastening members. In this way, the optical fibers 60 are attached to the apertures 144 using tie wraps 62. Alternatively or additionally, Velcro may be used to attach the optical fibers to the apertures 144.
Additionally, as described with respect to the fiber body holder 10, above, with reference to Figures 9 and 10 , the fiber body holder 100 may be removably attached to a mounting surface 44 which is a shelf 64 of fiber optic equipment, which may be a type of stackable shelf. The shelf 64 may have other fiber optic components 66. The other fiber optic components 66 may be any type of component, as examples, without limitation, adapters, splitters, fan-out devices, slack storage devices, strain relief devices, routing guides, and the like. Further. optical fibers 60 route to the fiber optic holder 50 the other fiber optic components 66. At one end, the optical fibers 60 routed to the fiber optic holder 50 may be a fiber optic cable, for example, a 900µm fiber sleeve with multiple 250µm optical fibers therein.
Figures 18-22 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a fiber body holder having a retainer assembly, a bracket and an attachment feature. The bracket has a first side and a second side connected to form an L shape. The bracket is removably attachable to a mounting surface in a first orientation by the first side, and removably attachable to the mounting surface in the second orientation by the second side. In this way, the retainer assembly may be removably attachable to the mounting surface by the attachment feature at the first side. Alternatively, the retainer assembly may be removably attachable to the mounting surface by an attachment feature at the second side.
Figure 18 is a top, perspective exploded view of a fiber body holder 200 having a retainer assembly 212 and a bracket 214 separate from the retainer assembly 212 in a first orientation. The bracket has a first side 216 and a second side 218 with bracket attachment features 220 on both the first side 216 and the second side 218. In this way, the bracket 214 can be removably attached to a mounting surface (not shown) in the first orientation or a second orientation. In the first orientation as shown in Figure 18 , the first side 216 attaches to a mounting surface via the bracket attachment feature 220 on the first side 216. In the first orientation, the retainer assembly 212 attaches to the second side 218 of the bracket 214 via assembly attachment feature 222. In Figure 18 , the assembly attachment feature 222 inserts into assembly receiver 224 in the second side 218 of the bracket 214. The assembly attachment feature 222 and the assembly receiver 224 are similar to the attachment feature 114 and the receiver 148 described above in the discussion of fiber body holder 100, and, therefore, will not be described again in the discussion of fiber body holder 200. The retainer assembly 212 has a plurality of retainers 226. Each retainer 226 has a channel 228. The channel 228 is defined by an end wall 230 and side walls 232. At least one retaining dimple 234 protrudes from the side walls 232. Supports 236 extend from the end walls 230. The first orientation may be used with a 1U, 2U, 3U or 4U shelf.
Figure 19 is a top, perspective exploded view of a fiber body holder 200 having a retainer assembly 212 and a bracket 214 separate from the retainer assembly 212 in the second orientation. In the second orientation as shown in Figure 19 , the second side 218 attaches to a mounting surface via the bracket attachment feature 220 on the second side 218. In the second orientation, the retainer assembly 212 attaches to the first side 216 of the bracket 214 via assembly attachment feature 222. The second orientation may be used with a 2U, 3U or 4U shelf.
Figure 20 illustrates a partially exploded view of the fiber body holder 200 removably attached to a mounting surface 44 in a first orientation with a fiber body 50 separate from the fiber body holder 200. As discussed above, in the first orientation, the first side 216 is removably attached to the mounting surface 44 and the retainer assembly 212 is removably attached to the second side 218. The fiber body 50 may be inserted in the retainer 226 by the mounting bosses 52. The mounting bosses 52 put pressure on the retaining dimples 234 which forces the side walls 232 to flex. This widens the channel 228 allowing the mounting bosses 52 to be inserted in the channel 228. When the passage 53 through the mounting bosses 52 reaches the retaining dimples 234, a pair of opposing retaining dimples 234 positions in respective opposite ends of the passage 53. The side walls 232 then flex back toward their initial positions. In this way, the retaining dimples 234 retain the mounting boss 52 in the channel 228, thereby, releasably retain the fiber body 50 in the retainer 226. The fiber body 50 may also be supported by the support 236. When the fiber body 50 is being removed from the retainer 226, the mounting bosses 52 put pressure the retaining dimples 234 forcing the retaining dimples 234 out of the respective opening in the passage 53, which forces the first side walls 232 to flex outwardly allowing the mounting bosses 52 to be removed from the channel 228. In this way, the retainer 226 may releasably retain the fiber body 50.
Figure 21 illustrates a reverse perspective view of the fiber body holder 200 removably attached to a mounting surface 44 in a second orientation with retainer assemblies 212(1), 212(2) and 212(3) removably attached to the first side 216. In Figure 21 , a fiber body 50 is shown releasably retained by a retainer 226 of retainer assembly 212(1) and another fiber body 50 releasably retained by a retainer 226 in retainer assembly 212(2). The retainer assemblies 212(1), 212(2) and 212(3) are removably attached to the first side 216 by respective assembly attachment features 222 received by respective assembly receivers 224. The bracket attachment feature 220 has a release tab 238 and a flange 240 which insert into a bracket receiver 242 to removably attach the bracket 214, and, thereby, the fiber body holder 200 to the mounting surface 44. The bracket receivers 242 removably attaching the bracket 214 illustrated in Figure 21 are hidden by the second side 218. Two other bracket receivers 242 in the mounting surface 44 are shown, which allow the fiber body holder 200 to be relocated or reoriented on the mounting surface 44.
Figure 22 illustrates the fiber body holder 200 used to strain relief optical fibers 60. The apertures 244 may be used as fastening members. In this way, the optical fibers 60 are attached to the apertures 244 using tie wraps 62. Alternatively or additionally, Velcro may be used to attach the optical fibers to the apertures 244.
Additionally, as described with respect to the fiber body holder 10, above, with reference to Figures 9 and 10 , the fiber body holder 200 may be removably attached to a mounting surface 44 which is a shelf 64 of fiber optic equipment, which may be a type of stackable shelf. The shelf 64 may have other fiber optic components 66. The other fiber optic components 66 may be any type of component, as examples, without limitation, adapters, splitters, fan-out devices, slack storage devices, strain relief devices, routing guides, and the like. Further. optical fibers 60 route to the fiber optic holder 50 the other fiber optic components 66. At one end, the optical fibers 60 routed to the fiber optic holder 50 may be a fiber optic cable, for example, a 900µm fiber sleeve with multiple 250µm optical fibers therein.
Figures 23A and 23B illustrate an exemplary embodiment of two fiber body holders hingedly attached to each other in a stacked orientation. Each of the fiber body holders has a retainer assembly with at least one retainer and a channel. The channel is configured to releasably retain a fiber body disposed therein via mounting bosses on the fiber body. An attachment feature connected to a bracket provides for the ability of a technician to attach the fiber body holder to and remove the fiber body holder from the mounting surface. A stacking feature may be configured to removably attach the two fiber body holders in the stacked orientation.
Figure 23A illustrates a first fiber body holder 300 removably attached to a second fiber optic body 300'. In Figure 23A the second fiber body holder 300' is attached to the first fiber body holder 300 in a stacked orientation in an open position. Each of the first fiber body holder 300 and second fiber body holder 300' has a retainer assembly 312, 312', an attachment feature 314, 314', retainer assembly 316, 316' and a channel 318, 318'. Additionally, each of the first fiber body holder 300 and second fiber body holder 300' has a stacking feature 320, 320'. Each of the stacking feature 320, 320' has two pins 322, 322', stand-off 324, 324' and forward and rearward facing collars 326(1), 326(2), 326(1)', 326(2)'. Additionally, a stop 328, 328' extends from each collar 326, 326'.
Although the first fiber body holder 300 will be described, it should be understood that such description applies to the second fiber body holder 300' unless otherwise indicated. A plurality of the retainers 316 aligns transversely across the retainer assembly 312. Each of the retainers 316 has a protrusion 332 extending from the retainer assembly 312. A plurality of apertures 330 extend through the retainer assembly 312. The channel 318 extends longitudinally in the retainer assembly 312. The mounting bosses 52 of a fiber body 52 inserts into and friction fits within the channel 318 (see Figure 23B ). In this way, the retainer 316 of the retainer assembly 312 releasably retains the fiber body 52. The two pins 322 extend transversely from respective sides of one end of the stand-off 324. The forward facing collar 326(1) and rearward facing collar 326(2) extend from the other end of the stand-off 324 in an arrangement aligned one each with one of the two pins 322.
In this manner, and as shown in Figure 23A , one of the pins 322 of the first fiber body holder 300 may insert into the forward facing collar 326(1)' of the second fiber body holder 300'. Similarly, the other one of the pins 322 of the first fiber body holder 300 may insert into the rearward facing collar 326(2)' of the second fiber body holder 300'. The pins 322 and the forward facing collar 326(1)' and the rearward facing collar 326(2)' form a hinge the first fiber body holder 300 and the second fiber body holder 300', allowing between the first fiber body holder 300 and the second fiber body holder 300' to pivot about and with respect to each other. The second fiber body holder 300' may be pivoted open, as in Figure 23A , or closed. In the open position, fiber bodies 52 may be inserted in, removed from, or relocated in the retainers 316 of the retainer assembly 312 in the fiber body holder 300'. Once the fiber bodies 52 are releasably retained by retainers 316 in the retainer assembly 312, the second fiber body holder 300' may be pivoted to the closed position.
Figure 23B illustrates the first fiber body holder 300 with the second fiber body holder 300' pivoted in the closed position. In Figure 23B , fiber bodies 50 are shown being releasably retained by retainers 316 of first fiber body holder 300 and the second fiber body holder 300'. Stops 328 limit the travel of the second fiber body holder 300' to provide clearance sufficient clearance for the fiber bodies 50 in the first fiber body holder 300. Depending on the size of the fiber body 50, the fiber body 50 may position between the protrusions 332, as is shown with respect to the first fiber body holder 300 or may position on the protrusion 332' as shown with respect to the second fiber body holder 300'. Similar to the manner in which fiber body holders 10, 100 and 200 may be used to strain relief optical fibers 60, as described above, the fiber body holders 300 and 300' may strain relief optical fibers 60. The apertures 330, 330' may be used as fastening members. In this way, the optical fibers 60 (not shown in Figures 23A and 23B ) may be attached to the apertures 330, 330' using tie wraps 62. Alternatively or additionally, Velcro may be used to attach the optical fibers to the apertures 330, 330'.
Additionally, as described with respect to the fiber body holder 10, above, with reference to Figures 9 and 10 , the fiber body holder 300 may be removably attached to a mounting surface 44 which is a shelf 64 of fiber optic equipment, which may be a type of stackable shelf. The shelf 64 may have other fiber optic components 66. The other fiber optic components 66 may be any type of component, as examples, without limitation, adapters, splitters, fan-out devices, slack storage devices, strain relief devices, routing guides, and the like. Further. optical fibers 60 route to the fiber optic holder 50 the other fiber optic components 66. At one end, the optical fibers 60 routed to the fiber optic holder 50 may be a fiber optic cable, for example, a 900µm fiber sleeve with multiple 250µm optical fibers therein.
Figures 24A and 24B illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a fiber body holder having two retainer assemblies hingedly attached to each other in a stacked orientation. Each retainer assembly has at least one retainer and a channel. At least one rubber insert extends from a side of the channel. The channel is configured to releasably retain a fiber body disposed therein via mounting bosses on the fiber body by friction fitting the mounting bosses against the at least one rubber insert. An attachment feature connected to a bracket provides for the ability of a technician to attach the fiber body holder to and remove the fiber body holder from the mounting surface.
Figure 24A illustrates a fiber body holder 400 with a first retainer assembly 412(1) hingedly attached to a second retainer assembly 412(2) by hinge 412 attached to a back 413 allowing the first retainer assembly 412(1) and the second retainer assembly 412(2) to pivot about and with respect to each other. In Figure 24A , the first retainer assembly 412(1) and the second retainer assembly 412(2) are shown pivoted in the open position. At least one of the first retainer assembly 412(1) and the second retainer assembly 412(2) has a channel 416. In the embodiment shown in Figure 24A , each of the first retainer assembly 412(1) and the second retainer assembly 412(2) has a channel 416. An attachment feature 418 connected to a bracket 420 allows the fiber body holder 400 to attach to a mounting surface (not shown). A stand-off 422 with aperture 424 extending therethrough and a stand-off tab 426 extends from an end of the second retainer assembly 412(2) opposite the hinge 412. A notch 428 is cut into an end of the first retainer assembly 412(1) opposite the hinge 412.
A first rubber insert 430 and a second rubber insert 432 extend from opposing sides 434 and 436 of the channel 416. The mounting bosses 52 of fiber body 50 insert between the first rubber insert 430 and a second rubber insert 432. The resilience of first rubber insert 430 and a second rubber insert 432 friction fit the mounting bosses 52 in the channel 416, thereby, releasably retaining the fiber body 50 in the retainer assemblies 412(1) and 412(2).
Figure 24B illustrates the fiber body holder 400 with the first retainer assembly 412(1) the second retainer assembly 412(2) pivoted to a closed position. As shown in Figure 24B, in the closed position stand-off tab 426 inserts into notch 428. The stand-off 422 and stand-off tab 426 are sized to coordinate with the bracket 420 and the back 413 size. The combined sizes of the stand-off 422 and stand-off tab 426 are, generally, equivalent to the combined size of the bracket 420 and the back 413. In this way. The appropriate amount of clearance can be provided between the first retainer assembly 412(1) and the second retainer assembly 412(2) when in the closed position. Further the fiber body holders 400 may strain relief optical fibers 60. The aperture 424 may be used as a fastening member. In this way, the optical fibers 60 (not shown in Figures 24A and 24B ) may be attached to the aperture 424 using tie wraps 62. Alternatively or additionally, Velcro may be used to attach the optical fibers to the apertures 424.
Additionally, as described with respect to the fiber body holder 10, above, with reference to Figures 9 and 10 , the fiber body holder 400 may be removably attached to a mounting surface 44 which is a shelf 64 of fiber optic equipment, which may be a type of stackable shelf The shelf 64 may have other fiber optic components 66. The other fiber optic components 66 may be any type of component, as examples, without limitation, adapters, splitters, fan-out devices, slack storage devices, strain relief devices, routing guides, and the like. Further, optical fibers 60 route to the fiber optic holder 50 the other fiber optic components 66. At one end, the optical fibers 60 routed to the fiber optic holder 50 may be a fiber optic cable, for example, a 900µm fiber sleeve with multiple 250µm optical fibers therein.
Many modifications and other embodiments will come to mind to one skilled in the art having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. Therefore, it is to be understood that the description is not to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included. It is intended that the description cover the modifications and variation. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.

Claims

A fiber optic apparatus, comprising:
at least one fiber body (50) retained in a retainer assembly (12, 12', 112, 112', 212, 312, 412) having at least one retainer (16, 116, 226, 316, 316') configured to releasably retain the at least one fiber body (50),
wherein the fiber body (50) is a body or a device including components that furcate, separate, ensleeve, or in any manner combine or un-combine optical fibers with respect to other optical fibers, fiber optic cables, coverings or jackets, and/or clamp or retain one or more optical fibers or fiber optic cables,

wherein the at least one retainer (16, 116, 226, 316, 316') comprises a channel (18, 118, 120, 228, 318, 318', 416) formed by end walls (20, 122, 126, 230) and side walls (22, 124, 128, 232),

wherein the end walls (20, 122, 126, 230) are divided into first and second segments by a center wall which intersects the end walls (20, 122, 126, 230), and

an attachment feature (14, 14', 114, 114', 220, 222, 314, 314', 418) configured to removably attach the retainer assembly (12, 12', 112, 112', 212, 312, 412),

characterized in that

the at least one optical fiber body (50) comprises mounting bosses (52),

the at least one retainer (16, 116, 226, 316, 316') is configured to releasably retain the at least one fiber body (50) via the mounting bosses (52) on the fiber body,

and wherein the channel (18, 118, 120, 228, 318, 318', 416) is configured to receive at least one of the mounting bosses (52) of the at least one fiber body (50), wherein the mounting bosses (52) are inserted in the channel (18, 118, 120, 228, 318, 318', 416) with one mounting boss (52) on one side of the center wall and the other mounting boss (52) on the other side of the center wall, and wherein the center wall prevents the fiber body (50) from rotating.
The fiber optic apparatus of claim 1, wherein the channel (18, 118, 120, 228) comprises opposing sides, and wherein each side of the opposing sides has a retaining dimple (54, 56, 136, 234) adapted to insert into a passage (56) formed through the mounting boss (52).
The fiber optic apparatus of claim 1, wherein the channel (318, 318') comprises opposing sides, and wherein the opposing sides are configured to receive the mounting bosses (52), and wherein the mounting bosses friction fit between the opposing sides.
The fiber optic apparatus of claim 1, wherein the channel (416) comprises opposing sides, and wherein at least one rubber insert (430, 432) attaches to at least one of the sides and extends between the opposing sides, and wherein the at least one rubber insert (430, 432) is configured to receive the mounting bosses (52) and releasably retain the mounting bosses (52).
The fiber optic apparatus of claim 4, wherein the at least one rubber insert (430, 432) comprises a first rubber insert (430) and a second rubber insert (432), and wherein the first rubber insert (430) attaches to and extends from one side, and the second rubber insert (432) attaches to and extends from the other side, and wherein the first rubber insert (430) and the second rubber insert (432) are configured to releasably retain the mounting boss (52) between the first rubber insert (430) and the second rubber insert (432).
The fiber optic apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one retainer is configured to toollessly, releasably retain the at least one fiber body (50).